It's not about feeling "bad for Mel." A place of worship should be off limits period. I don't care if it is Christian, Muslim, Buddhist, Hindu, Pagan, etc. The law even recognizes confession between a parishioner and their priest/rabbi/minister as impenetrable.
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Mel can be as batshit crazy as he wants to be but leave his congregation alone. If this had been some sacred mosque or temple the world would be screaming blasphemy. The media, as a whole, should show some respect.